Krannert People

Earl MajorMSHRM '90Director, HR PracticesHumana

Could you explain what your job entails?
"As Director of HR Practices at Humana, I am responsible for understanding all of the best practices that exist across various industries. My team and I research, benchmark, and develop proposals for how these best practices can be implemented within Humana."

Why should a prospective student choose the Krannert School?
"Krannert offers well-respected, rigorous, and disciplined degree options, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels. My Krannert experience prepared me well to face the challenges an opportunities that graduates face in the world of work."

What was the thing you enjoyed most about your time at Purdue?
"I really enjoyed working with bright and gifted team members. Many of these folks are still close friends of mine. We've all been successful as well, which makes it extra special."

What extracurriculars were you involved in, and how did they help prepare you for your career?
"Connections I made in the Krannert Graduate Student Association, as well as with the Business Opportunity Program and the Society of Minority Managers, gave me great access to a network of colleagues that served to enhance my learning experience at Krannert."

How was the teamwork among students at Krannert?
"The teamwork experience I had at Krannert prepared me well for the teaming experiences I've had in corporate America. More recently, Krannert's approach to teambuilding has been enhanced even further. These are very necessary skills that are needed in order to be successful in any role."

What role did the diversity of the student body play in your Krannert experience?.
"In addition to racial and gender diversity, Krannert attracted bright students from all walks of life. Many had previous work experiences, others did not. Some were members of the Armed Forces, while others had previously owned their own businesses. It was through this rich mosaic of experiences that I found Krannert to be an engaging and energizing place."

What was your favorite class at Krannert, and why?
"I would have to say that my first year Organizational Behavior class was a favorite. Dr. Steve Green brought a nice blend of knowledge, experience and humor to the course. Dr. Green was also one of my favorite professors, but there were many others."

Who is the person, in the business world or otherwise, that you most admire, and why?
"My strongest admiration goes to my parents. My father (deceased) and my mother not only gave me life, they taught me so much about life. I am forever indebted to them for the wisdom they bestowed on me, and I love them dearly."

Away from work...what are your hobbies?
"I love to read, especially history. I also write poetry and music, spend time with my family, and I'm a big fan of NFL football."